F.B.I. Bars Racism or Harassment of Any Type

Published: February 4, 1988

To the Editor:

As Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, I am troubled and concerned about your stories in recent days concerning alleged institutional discrimination in the F.B.I.

One special agent's complaints of discrimination and harassment have, in the words of Russell Baker, been turned into ''the latest F.B.I. horror story'' (column, Jan. 27). The suggestion that the F.B.I. condones discriminatory actions within its ranks is unjustified. It undermines a great American institution and, I feel, is an unwarranted personal and professional insult to the dedicated men and women of this organization, who have enforced the civil rights laws of this nation and will continue to do so.

The F.B.I. is vigorously addressing agent Donald Rochon's complaints. Because of pending litigation, I cannot address specific allegations at this time. However, I can state unequivocally that racism or harassment of any type will not be tolerated in the F.B.I.

We are actively pursuing an investigation. Our focus, as in any investigation, is on determining whether there has been criminal activity and insuring that all involved are treated fairly. If the investigation finds criminal wrongdoing or misconduct of any F.B.I. employees, those individuals will be punished. On the other hand, those vindicated by the investigation or the courts must be cleared.

The F.B.I. has made great strides in recruiting and advancing members of minority groups during the last decade, with more than 40 percent of our black special agents in our management program. We enforce civil rights statutes without prejudice and have had great success in investigating and prosecuting those who violate these laws. We will continue to do so. WILLIAM S. SESSIONS Director of the F.B.I. Washington, Feb. 1, 1988